What is the goal of ergonomics in health care?

• A. Designing work tasks and environment to fit workers, reducing injury and increasing efficiency.
• B. Maximizing patient turnover regardless of staff safety.
• C. Eliminating all breaks to speed up care.
• D. Focusing on equipment aesthetics.

Answer: (A)

Ergonomics in health care is about shaping tasks, tools, and workspaces so they fit the worker’s body and abilities, which helps prevent injuries and makes work more efficient. When tasks are designed with the right height, reach, and supports, staff can perform care tasks with less strain and fatigue, leading to safer, faster patient care. This includes using adjustable equipment, arranging supplies within easy reach, teaching safe body mechanics, and employing assistive devices for lifting and transferring patients. The other ideas miss the mark because rushing turnover without safety harms staff and patients, removing breaks lowers health and performance, and focusing on aesthetics ignores safety and functionality.